Seasonal Birdwatching: What Birds to Expect in Fall

Fall is one of the most exciting seasons for birdwatchers. As temperatures cool and daylight shortens, countless bird species begin their migration journeys across North America. Some will only pass through your yard on their way south, while others will stay for the winter months. By offering the right foods and setting up your feeders strategically, you can turn your backyard into a seasonal stopover for a wide variety of birds.

At Trail Optics, we believe fall is the perfect time to enjoy birdwatching — and with smart feeders, you can capture every fleeting visit up close.

Common Birds to Watch for in Fall

Different regions of the U.S. will see different feathered travelers, but these are some of the most common backyard visitors during autumn:

• American Robins – While many migrate south, others remain in northern areas and flock to berry bushes and fruit trees.
• Dark-eyed Juncos – Often called “snowbirds,” they arrive in many backyards as cold weather sets in.
• White-throated Sparrows – Migrating from Canada to the U.S., these sparrows flock to ground feeders in fall.
• Goldfinches – Their bright yellow summer feathers fade to olive, but they still frequent nyjer seed feeders.
• Cedar Waxwings – Known for traveling in flocks, they’ll stop for berries and fruits during migration.
• Warblers – Dozens of species pass through quickly during migration; look for them in trees and shrubs rather than at feeders.

Foods That Attract Fall Birds

Migration and colder nights increase birds’ need for energy. Here are top choices for fall feeding:

• Black Oil Sunflower Seeds – A universal favorite, providing high-fat nutrition.
• Nyjer Seeds – Ideal for finches and siskins during migration.
• Suet – Excellent for woodpeckers and nuthatches as temperatures drop.
• Fruit – Apples, oranges, and berries attract waxwings, orioles, and robins.

Tips for Spotting and Enjoying Fall Visitors

• Keep Feeders Clean and Stocked: Birds rely on dependable food sources during migration.
• Add Variety: Offer multiple types of feeders (tube, platform, suet cages) to appeal to different species.
• Observe Shrubs and Trees: Not all migratory birds use feeders — many prefer natural food sources.
• Use Smart Feeders: With built-in cameras, Trail Optics smart feeders allow you to capture visiting species you may not notice otherwise.

Why Feeding Birds in Fall Matters

Providing food in autumn supports migrating birds on their long journeys and helps local species prepare for winter. Consistent feeding also encourages birds to return year after year, making your backyard a reliable stopover in their seasonal cycle. Check out BirdCast if you want to see a live map of migration over the US right now! 

At Trail Optics, our smart feeders combine the joy of bird feeding with the innovation of real-time observation. Whether you’re spotting robins on their way south or welcoming juncos for the winter, you’ll have the chance to experience fall birdwatching like never before.